UDIA names 181 Fitzroy St best in class

The industry award tops off a fantastic year for Pace

Pace Development Group has again been recognised by the UDIA for its contribution to the Melbourne landscape, with the private developer winning the 2018 High Density Development award for its 181 Fitzroy St project.

The best in class result speaks to the building’s considered design and notable contribution to the local streetscape, with 181 credited as the inspiration for an uplift in the Fitzroy St precinct thanks to its activation of ground floor retail tenancies.

A dynamic, modern design paves the way for 151 apartments and provides sweeping, never to be built out views across the parklands, bay and city skyline.

Completed in January 2017, the development is a testament to the collaborative design efforts of SJB Architects, Carr Interiors and the integrated construction and development team at Pace, who managed the entire process.

Michael Holah, Planning and Design Manager for Pace, said the award is a reflection of the business’ commitment to creating spaces that excite people.

“St Kilda’s streetscape has long been home to innovative architecture, and the modern design of 181 continues this legacy. We couldn’t be prouder to have this recognised by the UDIA,” said Holah.

Much like the Art Deco and Bondi-style apartments before it, 181’s design embraces its prominent position and honours its neighbours – Port Philip Bay and Albert Park.

“We felt an obligation to the area and sought inspiration from the surrounds to create a project of local significance that does its Bayside location justice,” said Holah.

“When 181 settled, it was Pace’s 26th major residential development in the Bayside area. It is regarded as one of our best and serves as a symbol of our ongoing commitment to the community.”

This social consciousness is further evidenced at 181, with Pace also praised by the UDIA for partnering with Origin Energy to create the first residential property in Australia with an integrated energy solution that features solar, an EV charger and a communal PHEV (plug in hybrid vehicle) for residents.

In another first, 181 saw Pace create an infinity pool on it’s rooftop oasis that lets residents swim above one of St Kilda’s most iconic streets. Taking cues from luxury European resorts and day spas, 181’s communal facilities pay homage to the seaside and to a more relaxed way of life.

“Our intention with 181 was to deliver a modern canvas with all the principle design features you need to live comfortably and in your own unique way – it is as much about the lifestyle we have created as it is about the homes we have built,” said Holah.

With a building manager, full-time cleaning staff and a concierge serving the needs of the building and residents that is exactly what Pace have achieved.

Their commitment to quality is evident throughout the development, where nine distinct layouts, two colour scheme and three design packages were created to ensure every apartment could be tailored to suit the tastes and preferences of individuals.

“We wanted 181 to be a place that excites and is genuinely loved by the people that call it home,” said Holah.

“As one of Melbourne’s first truly integrated developers with our own group construction capability, we are able to incorporate a higher level of detail and customisation in our projects and take on a complexity of design.”

In 181’s case the quality of Pace’s execution scored incredibly well with the UDIA judging panel, who recognised the attention to detail in project’s intricate metal work and brick detailing.

It is a talent that the UDIA has commended previously, with Pace last year awarded a Commendation for their aptly named project on St Kilda Road, ‘The Icon’.

Common to these and each of Pace’s other projects is a commitment to design and build excellence.

“Our strategy has always been simple, apply a consistent level of quality to each development and inspire a new standard across Melbourne,” said Holah.

Most recently, this philosophy has seen Pace undertake new projects in Sunshine North, Flemington, Blackburn, Ascot Vale and North Melbourne.

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